Minister Joly issues statement on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

OTTAWA, March 21, 2016 /CNW/ - For 50 years, March 21 has been recognized by the United Nations as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

The day was chosen in memory of the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre, when South African police opened fire on unarmed anti-apartheid demonstrators, killing 69 people.

It is a day that reminds us to stand up against the destructive forces of racism in all its forms and reflect on how we can contribute to building a society where racial discrimination is no longer tolerated.

Canada is a strong country because of our diversity, and in that diversity we are a model of how people from different cultures and faiths can live and work side by side.

As Minister of Canadian Heritage, I invite all Canadians to recognize that diversity is at the heart of who we are, and to work together to end racial discrimination not just in our own country, but around the world.

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SOURCE Canadian Heritage

(media only), please contact: Pierre-Olivier Herbert, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage, 819-997-7788